August 31, 1889

Dear Mr. Lukeson,

It appears, for the most part, that things have returned to some relative calm within my family. Things are tougher for my cousins than for myself, but they appear to be holding up well. Bella is still out of contact with us. I confess I miss her friendship. Although I should not admit it, it pains me that she has not reached out to me in the year since it all happened.

You need not mention anything that will cause you pain in your letters if you do not wish. I will not think worse of you.

Your siblings all seem very sweet. I can not imagine growing up in a house full of so many personalities. I hope that they find comfort in Hogwarts, I know I always did. May you and your mother find comfort in their letters as I find in yours.

Baking is an unusual hobby to find among our set. But to find something you love in life, well that is a thing to be treasured and nurtured: be it a hobby, a person, a career. I had hoped to find a love in my life. But it appears that it shall not be the case. So long I’ve wasted on looking for it, that now, when the door closes, it feels as if a part of me is being locked outside.

It is unfortunate to have a wedding planned for oneself, yet altogether a common occurrence. My mother seems to feel as if I should have this honor - of planning it myself. A last gift before I am to be married against my wishes. But I find the taste rather arduous rather than fun. Perhaps if it were for a match I had made myself I might feel differently, I can only imagine if you love were at the end of the aisle I should find myself excited at the prospect.

Perhaps it is bold of me to ask, but my curiosity requires it: do you wish to marry for love one day, Mr. Lukeson? Or do you wish for nothing more than to find a good match that you might live in peaceable coexistence with as your days pass?

Your friend,
Miss Lucille Flint

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Thank you MJ for an amazingly Lucy set!